Debate Mate

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Debate Mate is a social venture that uses top university students to teach debating in the areas where it is most needed.  The majority of our work is done in inner-city schools across the UK in areas of high child poverty, though we have a strong international presence in places such as Nepal, Israel/Palestine, the UAE and the USA.  

We use debating to develop communication, higher-order thinking and interpersonal skills, while building confidence and self-esteem.  The lack of these qualities is the most important factor in holding back children from disadvantaged backgrounds, stifling social mobility.  By teaching debating through our dynamic and cost-effective peer-to-peer mentoring, we empower and inspire participants and provide them with a powerful role model to raise their aspirations.  

Debate Mate is a young organisation, having been founded in 2008.  However, since then we have expanded rapidly and have worked with over 10,000 young people across the globe.  A recent Pilotlight assessment concluded that, "Debate Mate is a very strong charity that is run like a commercial business...with a highly skilled CEO and support from an experienced and impressive board of trustees."  Rigorous internal and independent evaluations and very high demand for our programmes demonstrates our unique excellence.